Early voting starts today in Washington County

By: Elias Weiss

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Today marks the first day for voters to make their voices heard as the 2020 presidential election draws nearer and nearer.

Eight polling places offer early voting today, according to a press release.

The feature political race capturing voters’ attention is the Democratic primary. The primary will take place on “Super Tuesday” in Texas and Arkansas, which is March 3.

However, voters interested in the presidential election can cast their ballots as early as today.

College students often get a bad reputation as being complacent when it comes to voting, but many students think this is not the case.

Mickey Bilyeu, a sophomore and member of the UARK Young Democrats, said he is already in the process of early voting.

“Early voting is important because it ensures that election day won’t be a mess of everyone trying to vote at once,” Bilyeu said. “It gives the chance for those who would not otherwise be able to vote to do so.”

Washington County’s poll stations at prominent landmarks like the Arvest Ballpark and Washington County courthouse, which is accessible on the free local bus system, are helpful to students, Bilyeu said.

“There’s a large population of students without cars on campus, so it’s fantastic that they are being given increased chances to get to the polls,” Bilyeu said.

Early voting will run until Feb. 29.